President's message:President Mary McAleese has praised the "countless committees" which she said have made St Patrick's Day a truly global event.
In her annual St Patrick's Day message, President McAleese said she hoped the dedication and commitment of the Irish abroad would be rewarded with the best St Patrick's Day ever.
"It was Irish emigrants who introduced their vibrant culture to a multitude of new homelands and we have them to thank for the tide of affection and enthusiasm which the name of St Patrick evokes far and wide," she said.
"Today a prosperous Ireland is itself attracting immigrants from many far-off shores and they are adding greatly to our legendary cultural buoyancy.
"The Irish love of music, dance, fun and friendship will be showcased in every continent thanks to the work of countless committees whose passion for Ireland and her unique heritage has seen the St Patrick's Day pageant grow into a truly global phenomenon."
President McAleese will attend St Patrick's Day Mass at St Mary's Pro-Cathedral today before watching the parade. She will then host a reception at Áras an Uachtaráin in the afternoon.
On Monday she is due to begin a five-day official visit to Belgium and Italy, culminating in an audience with Pope Benedict XVI on Friday.
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